Key points
- 6–8 colds a year can be normal
- Smoke and dust make it worse
- Hand-washing and sleep help
- Fast breathing in a child = urgent
What it is
Young children commonly have six to eight colds a year, especially in their first years at playschool or school. Their immune system is meeting many viruses for the first time.
Recurrent colds become a concern when they are very frequent, take a long time to clear, keep turning into chest infections, or affect a child's growth, sleep and schooling.
Common signs
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough, often worse at night
- Sore throat and mild fever
- Tiredness and poor appetite
- Snoring or mouth-breathing between colds in some children
What can set it off
- Starting playschool or school
- Smoke at home, including chulha or cigarettes
- Dust and air pollution
- Nasal allergy
- Poor sleep or a diet low in fruit and vegetables
- Sudden weather changes
Everyday care that helps
- Encourage hand-washing, especially before meals
- Keep the home smoke-free
- Offer warm fluids, home-cooked food, fruit and vegetables
- Make sure the child sleeps enough
- Keep vaccinations up to date
- Let a child rest at home during a fever
When to see a doctor promptly
- Fast or difficult breathing, or the chest pulling in with each breath
- Fever above 102°F that does not come down, or lasting more than three days
- Unusual drowsiness or refusal to drink
- Ear pain or discharge
- Any breathing difficulty in a baby under three months
How we approach it at Gursagar
We take a full history of the child's illnesses, sleep, appetite, growth, temperament, home environment and family health.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for the child individually, and we review how often illnesses occur over the following months. Vaccinations and any treatment from the child's paediatrician continue as advised.
Common questions
Is it normal for my child to fall sick often?
Many colds a year is common in young children; frequent chest infections or poor growth need a check.
Should I stop milk during a cold?
Usually not; ask your doctor if you are unsure.
Can I consult online?
Yes — parents can describe the pattern and share a short video of breathing if needed.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.